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Biotechnology: UK Relations with EU

Asked by Alan MakConservativeDepartment for Science, Innovation and TechnologyTabled Answered 6 June 2025UIN 54302

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, what discussions he has had with his EU counterparts on whether gene-editing technology exports to the EU will need to (a) meet UK domestic standards only or (b) conform to future changes to EU SPS rules.

Answered by Feryal Clark

We have now agreed the parameters which will establish a UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement to make agrifood trade with our biggest market cheaper and easier, cutting costs and red tape for British producers and retailers.

We will update on progress with discussions with the EU in due course, but the UK has been clear about the importance of supporting the use of new and innovative technologies.

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